Slip and Fall FAQ

Slip and fall accidents can occur at any time and in any place. These seemingly harmless accidents have been determined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as the leading cause of head injuries in children under 18 and adults over 60 years of age, and the leading cause of wrist, knee, hip, and tailbone injuries of people in the 18-60 year age group. Slip and fall accidents also account for a significant amount of injuries to the spine.

In an effort to help clear up questions about this type of accident, we have compiled a slip and fall FAQ list with accompanying answers

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Slip And Fall Accidents

1. If I fall on a broken sidewalk, is the city held responsible for the injuries I received? This is the most common slip and fall FAQ that is asked of injury attorneys. In most cases, the municipality is responsible for the care and maintenance of the sidewalk and therefore is responsible for injuries received when it is in disrepair.

2. Do property owners have an obligation to keep a property safe during bad weather? Every property owner has an obligation to keep their premises safe. This includes putting out water mats, wet floor signs, and mopping the floor to keep it dry when it is raining or snowing, or ensure that there is proper snow or ice removal in areas that have this type of weather.

3. What if I was warned that there was a hazard and I fell anyways? This is a slip and fall FAQ that should be asked more often. Even if you have been warned that there is a potential danger and then you fall, you have the right to seek compensation for your injury and losses in a slip and fall accident. The fact that the building owner / manager warned you that there was danger implies that they knew that danger existed and did not take the necessary precautions to correct the situations.

4. Who should I notify when I was injured in a slip and fall accident? You should notify the owner or management of the company immediately if you have fallen on their property. If you have fallen in a public place, such as a city sidewalk or parking area, notify emergency services immediately and have a report filed.

5. The hand railing broke on the staircase and I fell, is this a slip and fall accident? Yes. Property owners have a duty to keep stairwells maintained for public safety. This includes making sure the stairs are free from debris, the stairway is well lit, and the hand rails are in working condition.

6. I was a guest at my neighbor’s home and fell, can I claim for a slip and fall accident? This is a slip and fall FAQ that can be very tricky to answer. In many cases, the homeowner who invited you to their house is responsible for the accident if there was no way that you knew there was a danger.

7. How does the Court determine that the property owner should have been aware of the danger that led to the fall? The Court will examine the evidence and determine if the owner of the property should have known of the danger. They will look at things such as what caused the accident and if it is something that was obvious or should have been obvious to the owner.

8. Should I get a medical exam when the slip and fall occurred, or wait to see if there is anything wrong? Seek medical attention immediately when you fall. Sprains, strains, and fractures may appear to jest be sore or achy at the scene of the accident. It is always in your best interest to seek a medical exam, especially if you have hit your head.

9. How long do I have to file a claim for slip and fall? The Statute of Limitations varies by jurisdiction. However, you may have between six and 24 months to file a claim for your losses based on where you live.

10. When should I consult an attorney about a slip and fall event?

Because the Statute of Limitations vary, it is important to consult an attorney as soon as possible after the accident occurred to protect your rights to seek compensation.